Forest School Leader Training

Here at Inspired Forest School Training our aim is to provide you with the highest quality Forest School training in Gloucestershire. We offer high quality qualifications in a unique and friendly working Forest School setting.

What is Forest School?

First of all Forest School is a unique approach to learning with child-led play at its centre. Children are offered curriculum-linked activities that are all small and achievable. This allows students to build self-esteem, resilience and confidence. Sessions are facilitated by the adults with at least one Level Three Forest School Leader in the group. This regular access to nature and risk taking allows individuals to reach their full potential. The roots of Forest School can be traced to Scandinavia.

Having 11 years experience of teaching this way we know that we are in a strong position to train students. Our key aim as a non-profit making company is to enable more children to access this wonderful style of learning. We are lucky to be able to offer our trainees the opportunity to learn alongside children as we have strong partnerships with local schools and businesses. Why choose anywhere else? Join us and let’s inspire together!

What is Forest School Training?

As a result of this, and as part of our unique Forest School Training, students will observe and participate in numerous Forest School settings. As a results the coursework and objectives will be much easier to access and achieve. Students will also feel more confident in the process of setting up and running their own Forest School settings.

These experiences allow our trainees maximum opportunity for practical learning with the ones who matter most in Forest School – the children. Forest School is an inspirational process offering everyone the opportunity to succeed through small, achievable tasks. Furthermore sessions focus upon participants taking well calculated risks.

What Forest School courses do we offer?

Our Forest School Training courses include Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 Forest School Leader training as well as a series of development days. The level that you can begin at depends on your experience, age and qualifications.

As part of our unique courses, we will guide and support you every step of the way.

We also offer Forest School professional development courses. We like to call these FOREST SCHOOL PLUS. Courses we run includeNatural Mindfulness with Ian Banyard of Cotswold Natural Mindfulness, Advanced Forest School Tool Usewith Touchwood Crafts and Achievable Willow Weaving with Helen of Glos Arts and Crafts Centre.

If you receive Sports Premium funding then all of our courses can be funded using this. Click here to find out more. We look forward to helping you to reach your full potential through your qualification with us.

All courses are accredited by the Open College Network, West Midlands.

Forest School principles

Finally, throughout our Forest School Training, we follow the key principles of Forest School from its Scandinavian roots. These principles have been set out by the Forest School Association (FSA):

Sessions take place in a natural environment to support development

Forest School is a long-term process of regular sessions

Promote the use of a range of learner-centred processes

Aiming to promote holistic development

Offering learners the opportunity to take supported risks

All run by qualified Forest School practitioner.

Inspired Forest School Training is endorsed by Tom Hall, Head of Education at Active Gloucestershire.

Meet the trainer

Shane is our Forest School Leader and QCF trainer. He has been a Forest School Leader for 11 years and is nothing less than a Forest School expert! Since completing his qualification in 2007, he has established three Forest School sites, worked with thousands of children at Forest School sessions, welcomed colleagues and visiting staff locally and from Europe… READ MORE

Cups of coffee/tea served

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People introduced to Forest School

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Course dates available

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FS Sessions run

What an amazing experience! The training has been fantastic and very informative. I was very nervous about starting but Shane quickly put me at ease and everyone there was also feeling pretty much like I was. We came from different backgrounds with varying experiences and knowledge. We all got along and helped each other through. I personally have a had a blast and have thoroughly enjoyed the skills days. I feel so excited to put everything into practice now with my newly gained knowledge. I still have a lot to learn but that comes with time and practice. I can not recommend this training course more. Without a doubt it has been a fantastic journey and I’m honestly enjoying the ride 😁 It has definitely inspired me 😁 Thank you to all those involved.Carron

This was a life changing course. Lovely, supportive people with the same interests as me. Excellent tutor with a depth of experience, enthusiasm and real sense of the Forest School ethos. Great balance of discussion, work with children and using tools. I would thoroughly recommend this course.’Gail

I count myself fortunate to have worked alongside Shane. He marries his passion for the subject matter with practical ideas that can have a transformational impact on the quality of your curriculum and the enjoyment your learners experience. Keep doing what you’re doing!.Dave

I have absolutely loved my Level 3 Forest School training. I’ve learned so many new skills and have discovered that I am way more capable than I ever thought. Shane is a fantastic trainer and his enthusiasm is infectious. I have literally loved every minute and cannot wait to see the positive impact it’s going to have on my school.’Jo